Using Donor Research to Influence Stewardship Praxis in Mennonite Foundation of Canada's Constituency

Abstract

How and why do people donate money to their church and other charities? Donor research sheds light on the practice of discipleship, the strength of Christian community, and the bonds of unity among churches. In all, sixty-six respondents completed a survey on their giving behaviour and participated in focus groups. Donors belonged to the seven supporting conferences (denominations) in Mennonite Foundation of Canada's (MFC) constituency. The results underscore trust as a condition for giving, and highlight connection and shared values/vision as reasons for giving. These findings are corroborated by national studies of Canadian donors. Understanding how and why constituents donate their gifts will help MFC pursue its mission of promoting "faithful, joyful giving" and may serve as a template or comparison for research in other denominations and charities. MFC services a diverse constituency in terms of language, culture, politics and education; these results should be transferable to other Christian contexts. The research develops a theologically robust, integrated model of giving and posits why giving patterns are changing. This thesis provides a number of discussion points around stewardship including: gratitude, role of the pastor, tithing, and planning. This action research project seeks to both document and influence stewardship values and practices among Canadian Mennonites and beyond. It offers practical suggestions on how charities and congregations can be more intentional in nurturing generosity.